Published: 2 hours ago

Youth Minister Tinoda Machakaire has appeared to take a swipe at businessman Wicknell Chivayo, warning against the use of power and influence to intimidate women and families.

Machakaire's remarks came shortly after Chivayo withdrew cyberbullying charges against his ex-wife, Sonja Louise Madzikanda, and her mother, Tabitha Madzikanda, following their arrest and detention for nearly a week.

Sonja Madzikanda (34) and her mother Tabitha (62) were arrested on May 16 and 17 respectively and charged with cyberbullying and harassment.

According to court allegations, Sonja unlawfully accessed Chivayo's mobile phone during their marriage and downloaded photographs and videos which she later shared with her mother.

Chivayo further alleged that the two women used artificial intelligence-generated images purporting to show him in the company of Cyril Ramaphosa long before May 3, the date on which the South African presidency said Ramaphosa first met him during a visit to Zimbabwe.

The pair had initially been denied bail after prosecutors argued they faced serious charges and were likely to interfere with investigations or reoffend if released.

However, the matter took a dramatic turn when Chivayo appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court and withdrew the charges.

Soon afterwards, Machakaire posted a strongly-worded message on X, though he did not directly name Chivayo.

"True leadership is not demonstrated through intimidation, abuse of authority or the misuse of influence against others, especially women and the elderly," Machakaire wrote.

"No grievance, misunderstanding or separation should ever justify the use of power, money or office to suppress, intimidate or humiliate another family."

The minister framed his remarks as both a personal reflection and guidance to young Zimbabweans, saying children learn more from actions than words.

"As a father, I believe one of the greatest responsibilities of a man is to honour and appreciate the woman who carries and nurtures the children that become part of his family," he wrote.

Machakaire ended his message with an appeal for peace and restraint.

"Peace begins with me. Peace begins with you. Peace begins with all of us."
- ZimLive